Explore These Green Spaces in SoMa, San Francisco

City living can be a fun experience because you’re in the heart of the action at all times. But there comes a time every so often when you just need a reprieve. Parks are the perfect answer — green, serene landscapes can be great for unwinding the mind and relaxing the body. Something that makes SoMa, San Francisco living special is the number of places available to enjoy the outdoors. For some of the area’s top parks, check out the list below.

Yerba Buena Gardens

Located between 3rd Street and Opera Alley, Yerba Buena Gardens is a tranquil oasis in the neighborhood. With interesting stone architecture, numerous art installations and fountains, it provides all the scenery you need to decompress after a long day. The park has a substantial amount of grassy areas for fun, frolicking and picnics. And with events like the farmers’ market and garden festival being held here on a regular basis, you can count on it as an appealing place to spend a weekend afternoon.

South Park

This quaint little park can be found in the middle of each side of South Park Street. South Park has all the features of a classic neighborhood park: a playground that’s fun for children of all ages, plenty of trees and stretches of grass, pleasant walkways and ample amounts of benches. Stop by this one on your lunch break, and you just might find yourself wanting to take the rest of the day off.

Mission Bay Parks

Bordered by Channel Street and 4th Street, Mission Bay Parks has something for everybody. Acres of open space are ideal for relaxing and exercising, and numerous areas designed for sports ensure that everyone can partake in their preferred activity in harmony. The boat launches are great for kayaking, stand-up paddling, and other non-motorized watercraft you may want to try. This natural habitat is also a great spot for wildlife and bird watching, letting you take in nature in a way that the rest of the city doesn’t allow you to. The Mission Bay Parks are also regular hosts to a calendar of great activities for children and adults alike, ranging from farmers’ markets to kids’ soccer classes. With so much to do, don’t be surprised if you find yourself returning time after time.

Sun Terrace

A privately owned public space, this delightful spot sprawls across the top of a parking garage located between Ecker Place and First Street. There, you’ll find a patio-style layout, including tables, chairs, short walls for seating and elegantly planted greenery. A waterfall-inspired fountain completes the scene, adding peaceful sounds to the quiet park. Lifted off of the busy city streets, this park is a great place for those looking to kick back with friends.

As you can see, these green spaces offer SoMa, San Francisco living at its best. The next time you’re looking for green spaces in or around the neighborhood, pay a visit to any of these great spots!